The Indian Test team, led by Shubman Gill, has arrived in Colombo ahead of its crucial two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, marking the resumption of its ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 campaign. With India currently placed fifth in the WTC standings, the upcoming series carries significant importance as the visitors look to strengthen their qualification hopes.
Despite the pressure of the assignment, the Indian camp appeared relaxed and in good spirits upon arrival in Sri Lanka. Dressed in their travel kits, the players were seen sharing laughs and enjoying light-hearted moments before turning their focus to the demanding red-ball challenge ahead.
One of the highlights of the team’s arrival was wicketkeepers Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel stepping behind the camera instead of behind the stumps. The duo tried their hand at photography, capturing candid moments as spinner Kuldeep Yadav happily posed for their pictures, reflecting the positive atmosphere within the squad.
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Before the opening Test, India will fine-tune their preparations with a three-day warm-up match at the Nondescripts Cricket Club in Colombo, beginning on August 7. The team will then travel to Galle, where the first Test is scheduled to start on August 15.
Capturing smiles and creating travel memories on the way to Colombo 😁🎞️#TeamIndia have arrived in Sri Lanka 🛬#SLvIND pic.twitter.com/TuRFOW4gIw
— BCCI (@BCCI) August 5, 2026
Meanwhile, young batter B Sai Sudharsan is yet to join the squad and remains at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru while recovering from a toe injury sustained during the recent India A tour of Sri Lanka.
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According to a PTI report, Sudharsan has resumed batting in the nets for over an hour each day as part of his rehabilitation. His fitness will continue to be assessed over the next few days before the team management decides on his availability. The BCCI is determined not to rush his return, prioritising a complete recovery to avoid another recurrence similar to Harshit Rana’s recent injury setback.
